The trend in recent history has seen a gradual growth of para-sport both in local and international competitions.
While para-athlete David Emong remains the face of the minority sports divide, a number of promising talents are now stepping up to showcase their talents and prove their abilities across different sports.
Para powerlifter Denis Mbaziira is one such talent and he is part of Uganda’s contingent for the upcoming Birmingham Commonwealth Games later this month.
The 36-year-old says returning home with a medal at the end of the Games is his focus.
“I’ve been training and focusing on how I can get more power to lift more weights. I have added some more weight compared to the past so I am improving now,” Mbaziira stated.
“I’m in category 88 and my competitors are going to face a challenge so they should be expecting it.”
The government has shown commitment to supporting the development of para-sport in the country by classifying it among priority sports.
This comes as an indicator of increased interest and effort however the need for more resource allocation remains key,
“We were recently promised allowances which we are yet to receive and other departments have not yet delivered.”
“I’ve been undercover and the platform has not been so good, especially to our side of disability and we are the last to get chances.”
“If we get the opportunity of being uplifted then we can represent our country,” Mbaziira continued.
Mbaziira will be involved in the 165-170 category with the Commonwealth Games set to run between July 28- August 8 in Birmingham, England.
